Samsung Launches 200MP ISOCELL HP5 Sensor – Tiny Pixels, Big Zoom Power
Samsung unveils 200MP ISOCELL HP5 sensor with 0.5µm pixels, optimized for zoom, low-light photography, and advanced AI image processing.
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Samsung has unveiled its latest smartphone camera innovation, the ISOCELL HP5, a 200-megapixel sensor featuring 0.5µm pixels, marking the first of its kind globally. The sensor is engineered to boost zoom capabilities, low-light performance, and overall image quality, particularly for telephoto and periscope camera setups. Integration into upcoming Samsung devices is planned soon.
The ISOCELL HP5 employs a 1/1.56-inch optical format, smaller than previous high-resolution sensors. To overcome the challenges posed by tiny pixels, such as reduced light absorption and increased noise, Samsung has implemented several technological improvements. The sensor incorporates Front Deep Trench Isolation (FDTI) and dual Vertical Transfer Gate (D-VTG) structures, allowing each pixel to store more electrons, enhancing sensitivity. A DTI Center Cut (DCC) mechanism further reduces random noise while improving autofocus accuracy.
Color performance has also been optimized through High Precision Microlens, High Transmittance ARL, and High Sensitivity DTI technology, which collectively enhance light intake and minimize interference. These features aim to produce sharp, clear images even in low-light conditions.
The HP5 sensor supports AI-driven E2E Remosaic processing, capturing full 200MP images in less than two seconds. It handles 13-bit color depth, representing over 550 billion color shades. Staggered HDR technology and Smart ISO Pro enable better dynamic range, delivering detailed photos across diverse lighting conditions.
Although designed primarily for zoom cameras, the HP5 can improve image quality on mid-range main cameras. It supports 2x in-sensor zoom for wide-angle lenses and up to 6x lossless zoom when paired with a 3x telephoto lens. Frame rates include 7.5 fps at full 200MP, 30 fps at 50MP, and 90 fps at 12.5MP, with RAW support from 8-bit to 14-bit. Video recording options include 8K at 30fps, 4K at 120fps, and FHD at 480fps.
For low-light conditions, Samsung uses Tetrapixel technology to merge small 0.5µm pixels, producing 12.5MP images with 2.0µm pixels or 50MP images with 1.0µm pixels, improving brightness and detail.
Samsung has initiated mass production of the ISOCELL HP5. Devices equipped with this new sensor are expected to be announced in the coming months.
